Effective treatment for periodontal disease available in Tucson, AZ

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults in this country have some level of periodontal disease. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults and is linked to increased risk of grave illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, respiratory ailments, osteoporosis, and more. Dr. Colby Echols and his team in Tucson, AZ help patients keep their teeth and good health with effective treatment for gum disease.

Gingivitis and periodontal disease are serious

Hundreds of strains of bacteria thrive in the moist, warm environment of your mouth. When they are not removed with frequent brushing and flossing, certain types overpopulate quickly. These organisms create a sticky biofilm called plaque for protection and to trap food debris (they love starches and sugars). As they eat, bacteria excrete acids that irritate gums.

Without sufficient oral hygiene, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) at the gum line, causing more irritation. Soft tissues lose their seal to teeth forming gum pockets, which allow pathogens to penetrate deeper. Early periodontitis progresses to severe gum disease. Ligaments and bone that anchor teeth are destroyed. Teeth get loose and fall out or require extraction.

What to expect from periodontal disease treatment in Tucson, AZ

Initially, gum disease is easy to ignore since there is little or no pain. This early stage is called gingivitis. If you have it, you may notice:

• Persistent bad breath
• Gums look red, blotchy, or swollen
• Gums bleed when you brush teeth or floss
• Pink stains on your pillowcase

Reversing gum disease is possible at this stage. Dr. Echols’ diagnosis includes visual examination and measuring pocket depth. The hygiene team performs a thorough cleaning and provides guidance on improved home care and products such as antibacterial mouth rinse. Ongoing gum therapy may include more frequent cleanings.

If the condition has reached the state of periodontitis, gum disease treatment involves deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). This process, performed in quadrants with local anesthesia, cleans plaque and tartar below the gumline and smooths root surfaces, encouraging gums to seal. Topical or oral medications may be prescribed. In severe cases, referral to a periodontist for gum surgery could be necessary. Gum health plays a vital role in wellness. Please don’t neglect it. Call (520) 595-3655 for periodontal disease treatment at Swan Dental C in Tucson, AZ.

Dr. Colby Echols, DDS
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Dr. Colby Echols received his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish from Brigham Young University and his Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2005 from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Southern Arizona Dental Association.

Dr. Echols has years of experience performing general dentistry procedures, including fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, bridges, implants, and cosmetic dentistry. His patients trust him to help them achieve the smile they love while building life-long relationships.